by Pamela Brander Myers        Last updated 2010-10-19 6:47 PM EST A SHORT NOTE:   This is *not* a List of Bad ingredients.   This is a list of ingredients that are found in many pet foods, an explanation of what they are, how they are used in the pet food and for what reason the manufacturer adds them or Does Not Add them, to the foods.  Some are fine and others are not so good and still others can be very *harmful* to our babies. *

A

ALFALFA alfalfa (n.) A southwest Asian perennial herb (Medicago sativa) having compound leaves with three leaflets and clusters of usually blue-violet flowers. It is widely cultivated as a pasture and hay crop.Alfalfa products supply protein, calcium, carotene, water-soluble vitamins, alpha tocopherols (Vitamin E), and Vitamin D.  

ALFALFA MEALThe aerial portion of the alfalfa plant, reasonably free from other crop plants, weeds and mold, which has been sun cured and finely ground.

AMINO ACIDSComponent part of all protein

AMMONIATED GLYCYCRRHIZINA sweetener-considered a potent drug-further study for safety

AMYLASE Enzyme which breaks down carbohydrates

ANIMAL FAT (FAT SOURCE) PRESERVED W/MIXED-TOCOPHEROLS (FORM OF VITAMIN E)AAFCO: Obtained from the tissues of mammals and/or poultry in the commercial processes of rendering or extracting. It consists predominantly of glyceride esters of fatty acids and contains no additions of free fatty acids. If an antioxidant is used, the common name or names must be indicated, followed by the words "used as a preservative". Note that the animal source is not specified and is not required to originate from "slaughtered" animals. The rendered animals can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), goats, pigs, horses, rats, misc. roadkill, animals euthanized at shelters, restaurant and supermarket refuse and so on.

ANIMAL DIGEST (FLAVORING AGENT)AAFCO: A material which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed animal tissue. The animal tissues used shall be exclusive of hair, horns, teeth, hooves and feathers, except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice and shall be suitable for animal feed. If it bears a name descriptive of its kind or flavor(s), it must correspond thereto. A cooked-down broth made from unspecified parts of unspecified animals. The animals used can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), goats, pigs, horses, rats, misc. roadkill, animals euthanized at shelters, restaurant and supermarket refuse and so on.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR Amongst other things, cider vinegar is very effective in detoxicating various organs in the body together with the blood stream. Hence it is a purifier, as it has a means of breaking down fatty, mucous and phlegm deposits within the body. It therefore, promotes the health of the vital organs of the body e.g. kidneys, bladder, liver etc., by preventing an excessively alkaline urine. http://www.lacetoleather.com/wondrugpag3.html#vinegar

APPLE POMACE (FRUITS and VEGETABLES)AAFCO: The mixture of apple skins, pulp, and crushed seeds. An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing. Does not contain the whole complement of nutrients as whole fresh or dried apples.

APPLESA natural source of dietary fiber, vitamin C and B vitamins.

ASCORBIC ACID (Preservative) A crystalline Vitamin C found in citrus, fresh fruits, tomatoes, potatoes and green leafy vegetables. Vitamin C. Acts as an antioxidant in the feed (preserves shelf life, prevents rancidity). Non-essential vitamin for dogs and cats (they can produce adequate amounts on their own).

ASH‘the incombustible inorganic residue remaining after incineration; generally the mineral content of the food’ *Contrary to popular belief ash in pet food has not been collected from a fire place and added for bulk! In pet food the constituents are broken down in to several components: carbohydrate, moisture, protein, fiber and fat/oil. Anything that does not come into one of these categories is called by the general term 'ash'. Therefore ash contains minerals and vitamins and is essential for your pet's health. It is called ash because when the food is burned (to determine its analysis) carbohydrate, fiber, fat and protein are all incinerated. Ash is the part of the food that remains after incineration. However, foods with very high ash contents may contain excessive quantities of vitamins and minerals which can be detrimental to your pet's health.

ASPERGILLUS NIGEREnzymes

B

B-4401

BACILLUS SUBTILUS Source of fiber helps develop good fecal consistency; acts as a calming base for forming the stool in the colon. Made by drying residual beet chips after sugar extraction

BARLEYConsists of at least 80 percent sound barley and must not contain more than 3 percent heat-damaged kernels, 6 percent foreign material, 20 percent other grains or 10 percent wild oats.

BARLEY (Cracked Pearl) Whole grain. Has 50% more protein than rice. Slow burning carbohydrate source, helps control blood sugar levels and helps keep the pet feeling satisfied for a longer period of time.

BARLEY FLOURSoft, finely ground and bolted barley meal obtained from the milling of barley. It consists essentially of the starch and gluten of the endosperm.

BEEF (MEAT) Is the clean flesh derived from slaughtered cattle, and is limited to that part of the striate muscle which is skeletal or that which is found in the tongue, in the diaphragm, in the heart, or in the esophagus; with or without the accompanying and overlying fat and the portions of the skin, sinew, nerve and blood vessels which normally accompany the flesh.

BEEF and BONE MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE)AAFCO: The rendered product from beef tissues, including bone, exclusive of any added blood, hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents, except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices. A byproduct made from beef parts which are not suitable for human consumption. It can incorporate the entire cow, including the bones, but the quality cuts of meat are always removed. This is an inexpensive, low quality ingredient used to boost the protein percentage.

BEEF TALLOW (FAT SOURCE)

AAFCO: Fat with titer above 40 degrees Celsius, obtained from the tissue of cattle in the commercial process of rendering. Also called Beef Fat. Dogs and cats like the taste of this fat, so it is often used to make low-quality food more palatable. Beef tallow is very low in linoleic acid and much cheaper for the pet food industry to use than a good quality vegetable oil or nutritionally rich chicken fat

BEET PULP  beet pulp, dried molasses" and "beet pulp, dried, plain - the dried residue from sugar beets. (ALSO DRIED BEET PULP)Dried remains of sugar beets after sugar is removed. Gray in color. Moderately fermentable fiber source to provide cells in colon with energy and to promote the "good" bacteria in the intestines. Considered to be one of the best fiber sources for optimal stool quality.

 There is a lot of controversy on this one - Do you buy the Beet pulp is bad argument? http://holisticpetfood.wordpress.com/2008/08/21/do-you-buy-the-beet-pulp-is-bad-argument/You can read up on the pros and cons...here  http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1399&articleid=2705      

BETA CAROTENE Beta-carotene may have antioxidant activity. It may also have immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic and antiatherogenic activities in some cases. Beta-carotene is a member of a class of substances called carotenoids. Beta-carotene, similar to the other carotenoids, is a natural fat-soluble pigment. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/bet_0032.shtml 

BHA BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE (PRESERVATIVE) A white, waxy phenolic antioxidant, C11H16O2, used to preserve fats and oils, especially in foods. Banned from human use in many countries but still permitted in the US. Possible human carcinogen, apparently carcinogenic in animal experiments. (Cancer) The oxidative characteristics and/or metabolites of BHA and BHT may contribute to carcinogenicity or tumorigenicity.

BHT BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUNE (PRESERVATIVE)A crystalline phenolic antioxidant, C15H24O, used to preserve fats and oils, especially in foods. Banned from human use in many countries but still permitted in the US. Possible human carcinogen, apparently carcinogenic in animal experiments. Implicated in Liver Damage. The oxidative characteristics and/or metabolites of BHA and BHT may contribute to carcinogenicity or tumorigenicity.

BIOTIN TRADE NAMES D-Biotin (Numerous manufacturers), Biotin Forte (Vitaline Corporation), Meribin (Mericon Industries) Biotin, a member of the B-vitamin family, is an essential nutrient in human nutrition.  An important role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and protein. B vitamin required for metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, and non-essential amino acids. Water soluble vitamin. Required for normal skin and hair coat. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/bio_0035.shtml

BLOOD MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE)AAFCO: Blood Meal is produced from clean, fresh animal blood, exclusive of all extraneous material such as hair, stomach belchings and urine except as might occur unavoidably in good manufacturing process. A large portion of the moisture is usually removed by a mechanical dewatering process or by condensing by cooking to a semi-solid state. The semi-solid blood mass is then transferred to a rapid drying facility where the more tightly bound water is rapidly removed. The minimum biological activity of lysine shall be 80%. An inexpensive protein booster. You have no way of knowing what type of animal the blood came from or what residues of hormones, medications or other substances are in this product. It has a better use as fertilizer than as a dog food ingredient. It’s a cheap ingredient~!

BLUEBERRIES Rich in fiber and antioxidants, blueberries are a natural boost to the immune system.

BLUEBERRY POMACE

BLUE DYE 2  (COLORING AGENT)The color additive FD&C Blue No. 2 is principally the disodium salt of 2-(1,3-dihydro-3-oxo-5-sulfo-2H-indol-2-ylidene)- 2,3-dihydro-3-oxo-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid with smaller amounts of the disodium salt of 2-(1,3-dihydro-3-oxo-7-sulfo-2H-indol-2-ylidene)-2,3-dihydro-3-oxo-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid and the sodium salt of 2-(1,3-dihydro-3-oxo-2H-indol-2-ylidene)-2,3-dihydro-3-oxo-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid. Additionally, FD&C Blue No. 2 is obtained by heating indigo (or indigo paste) in the presence of sulfuric acid. The color additive is isolated and subjected to purification procedures. The indigo (or indigo paste) used above is manufactured by the fusion of N-phenylglycine (prepared from aniline and formaldehyde) in a molten mixture of sodamide and sodium and potassium hydroxides under ammonia pressure. The indigo is isolated and subjected to purification procedures prior to sulfonation.

The largest study suggested, but did not prove, that this dye caused brain tumors in male mice. The FDA concluded that there is "reasonable certainty of no harm", but personally I'd rather avoid this ingredient and err on the side of caution.

BONE PHOSPHATE (SUPPLEMENT) Bone Phosphate is the residue of bones that have been treated first in a caustic solution then in a hydrochloric acid solution, and thereafter precipitated with lime and dried. A highly processed feed-grade supplement to balance the calcium and phosphorus content of a product.

BREAKFAST BY-PRODUCTS A by-product left after the manufacture of dry breakfast foods.

BREWER’S DRIED YEAST (Flavor enhancer)                                                                                                                                                              (Protein) Non-fermentable yeast that provides B-complex vitamins and proteins.

BREWERS RICE (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)  Also appears in ingredient lists as ground Brewers Rice. Highly digestible carbohydrate made up from broken fragments of rice AAFCO: The small milled fragments of rice kernels that have been separated from the larger kernels of milled rice. A processed rice product that is missing many of the nutrients contained in whole ground rice and brown rice. Contrary to what many pet food companies want to make you believe, this is not a high quality ingredient, just much cheaper than whole grain rice.  The dried extracted residue of rice resulting from the manufacture of wort (liquid portion of malted grain) or beer and may contain pulverized dried spent hops in an amount not to exceed 3 percent.

BROMELAINEnzymes from pineapple plant.

BROWN RICE Whole grain brown rice ground to a powder. Whole grains are metabolized more slowly, providing a steady supply of energy throughout the day. Source of fiber, carbohydrates, and vitamin B - Unpolished rice after the kernels have been removed..

BY-PRODUCTS Products not fit for human consumption from any source. May and does includes feathers, hides, bones, intestines, heads and feet of slaughtered animals

C

CANE MOLASSES (SWEETNER)AAFCO: A by-product of the manufacture of sucrose from sugar cane. It must contain not less than 43% total sugars expressed as invert. Sugar or sweetener is an absolutely unnecessary ingredient in pet foods, added to make the product more attractive. Continuous intake can promote hypoglycemia, obesity, nervousness, cataracts, tooth decay, arthritis and allergies. Pets also get addicted to foods that contain sugars, so it can be a tough piece of work to make them eat something healthier.

CALCIUM Mineral for bones, teeth and muscles.

CALCIUM CARBONATE

CALCIUM IODATE

CALCIUM PANTOTHENATESource of pantothenic acid, a B-vitamin. This vitamin is necessary for normal intestinal function, growth, and hair coat color.Source of Vitamin B5

CALCIUM PHOSPHATE

CARROTS- (Antioxidant)

Hopefully just carrots <g> A natural source of B vitamins and beta carotene, an antioxidantAAFCO: Purified, mechanically disintegrated cellulose prepared by processing alpha cellulose obtained as a pulp from fibrous plant materials. Dried wood is the most common source for cellulose (I'm not kidding.). It is cleaned, processed into a fine powder and used to add bulk and consistency to cheap pet foods. I would consider this ingredient appropriate for termites, but certainly not for dogs or cats.

CELLULOSE (FIBER SOURCE)AAFCO: Purified, mechanically disintegrated cellulose prepared by processing alpha cellulose obtained as a pulp from fibrous plant materials. Dried wood is the most common source for cellulose (I'm not kidding.). It is cleaned, processed into a fine powder and used to add bulk and consistency to cheap pet foods. I would consider this ingredient appropriate for termites, but certainly not for dogs or cats.

CEREAL FOOD FINES (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)AAFCO: Particles of breakfast cereals obtained as a byproduct of their processing. An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing of unknown source, quality, possible chemical residue, sweeteners or other additives.

CHICKEN The clean combination of flesh and skin with or without accompanying bone, derived from the parts or whole carcasses of chicken or a combination thereof, exclusive of feathers, heads, feet and entrails.

CHICKEN BY-PRODUCT MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE)AAFCO: Consists of the dry, ground, rendered, clean parts of the carcass of slaughtered chicken, such as necks, feet, undeveloped eggs, and intestines -- exclusive of feathers except in such amounts as might occur unavoidably in good processing practices. Chicken byproducts are much less expensive and less digestible than the chicken muscle meat. The ingredients of each batch can vary drastically in ingredients (heads, feet, bones etc.) as well as quality, thus the nutritional value is also not consistent. Don't forget that byproducts consist of any parts of the animal OTHER than meat. If there is any use for any part of the animal that brings more profit than selling it as "byproduct", rest assured it will appear in such a product rather than in the "byproduct" dumpster.

CHICKEN FAT Source of palatability, essential fatty acids and energy. The most digestible animal fat source available. This is a liquid at room temperature which indicates a higher level of polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to fats which are solid at room temperature and are higher in saturated fatty acids. A source of Arachidonic acid (elongated form of Omega 6) and Linoleic (Omega-6) Acid.

CHICKEN ( FRESH) Food grade chicken that has been mechanically separated from the bone. Never frozen, arrives less than 24 hours after it is processed. Enhances palatability, low ash.

CHICKEN LIVER MEALChicken livers which have been ground or otherwise reduced in particle size.

CHICKEN MEAL Natural Source of Glucosamine Moist-cooked fresh chicken meat without by-products, feet heads, feathers or intestines that is fine ground into a meal

CHICORY ROOT (dried) A moderately fermentable carbohydrate source. Fermentation of chicory root (FOS-fructooligosaccharide) in the colon produces short chain fatty acids that are an energy source for colonocytes (cells lining the colon) as well as for the good bacteria in the colon .

CHOLECALCIFEROL (vitamin D3) (koe leh cal SIH fer all) Brand Names: Delta D3You cannot take cholecalciferol, if you have high levels of vitamin D or calcium in your body. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, heart disease, or circulation problems http://www.drugs.com/MTM/cholecalciferol.html

CHOLINE Added by some companies that say for Growth and maintenance

CHOLINE CHLORIDE (MINERAL) Choline Chloride is a B-complex vitamin that is added as an important nutrient in poultry, pig and other animal feeds. It is normally supplied as a 70% solution in water which is suitable for applying to cereal for addition to animal feed. Choline (2-hydroxyethyltrimethylammonium hydroxide) is an important nutrient for animals, often classified as one of the B group of vitamins.

Choline also acts, along with methionine and betaine, as a source of metabolic methyl groups. http://www.chance-hunt.com/nutrition/feedproductssubcats/rumenprotnut_subs/cholinechloride.html

CHONDROITIN SULFATE A naturally occurring substance in the body, this is a building block for normal healthy cartilage. It also helps block harmful enzymes from damaging the cartilage. This supplement is derived from poultry cartilage

CITRUS BY-PRODUCTS (See CITRUS PULP)

CITRUS PULP  (FRUITS AND VEGETABLES)Citrus Pulp is the dried residue of peel, pulp and seeds of oranges, grapefruit and other citrus fruit. This inexpensive byproduct is mainly used as a bulk carbohydrate concentrate in cattle feed but also added as a source of fiber in dog food. Since the peel and some twigs and leaves are also included, there is a possibility of residues from pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.

COBALT PROTEINATEChelate of Cobalt (Cobalt wrapped in an easy-to-digest protein (kelp) for better absorption)

COD LIVER OIL Excellent source of unsaturated fatty acids and Vitamin A. Important for cats.

COPPER A small amount of copper improves utilization of iron.

COPPER PROTEINATEChelated form of copper. Copper is an important mineral for maintaining coat color and also regulates reproduction in cats. Chelated minerals are attached to amino acids for better absorption from the digestive tract.

COPPER SULFATE Source of copperAn inorganic form of copper, a required mineral element. Copper is involved in normal reproduction as well as responsible for maintaining normal coat pigmentation.

CORN Unspecified corn product.

CORN BRAN (FIBER SOURCES)AAFCO: The outer coating of the corn kernel, with little or none of the starchy part of the germ.An inexpensive source of fiber that serves as a filler ingredient to add bulk to poor quality pet food

CORN CELLULOSE  (FIBER SOURCES)AAFCO: A product obtained from the cell walls of corn. Obtained by use of a chemical process, it is used to add bulk and consistency to cheap pet foods and has no nutritional value.  

CORN DISTILLERS-DRIED GRAINS WITH SOLUBLES-(PROTEIN SOURCE)Distillers Dried Grains with solubles (DDGS) is the product obtained by condensing and drying the stillage that remains after fermenting the starch in corn or milo in the production of ethyl alcohol. An inexpensive byproduct used as protein filler in cheap dog foods. Its amino acids are poorly balanced, not very digestible, have a high fiber content and nutritional value can vary greatly from batch to batch. Better suited as cattle feed.

CORN GERM MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCES)AAFCO: Ground corn germ which consists of corn germ with other parts of the corn kernel from which part of the oil has been removed and is obtained from either a wet or dry milling manufacturing process of corn meal, corn grits, hominy feed, or other corn products. An inexpensive by-product of human food processing, rich in protein but sadly often used as a booster in poor quality foods. It is not a harmful ingredient but should not rank high in the ingredient list of a quality product.

CORN GLUTEN (BINDER)An inexpensive by-product of human food processing which offers very little nutritional value and serves mainly to bind food together. That part of the commercial shelled corn that remains after the extraction of the larger portion of the starch, gluten, and term by the processes employed in the wet milling manufacture of corn starch or syrup. It is not a harmful ingredient but should be avoided simply for its poor nutritional value and quality.

CORN GLUTEN MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCES) AAFCO: The dried residue from corn after the removal of the larger part of the starch and germ, and the separation of the bran by the process employed in the wet milling manufacture of corn starch or syrup, or by enzymatic treatment of the endosperm. An inexpensive by-product of human food processing which contains some protein but serves mainly to bind food together. It is not a harmful ingredient but should not rank high in the ingredient list of a quality product.

CORN SYRUP (SWEETENER)A concentrated juice, syrup, derived and prepared from corn and cornstarch, used in industry and in numerous food products as a sweetener. Sugar or sweetener is an absolutely unnecessary ingredient in pet foods, added to make the product more attractive. Continuous intake can promote hypoglycemia, obesity, nervousness, cataracts, tooth decay, arthritis and allergies. Pets also get addicted to foods that contain sugars, so it can be a tough piece of work to make them eat something healthier.

COTTAGE CHEESE & WHOLE EGG High quality protein; including tryptophan, calcium, and lecithin from the egg yolk. Cottage cheese is a cheese curd product with a mild flavor. It is drained, but not pressed so some whey remains. The curd is usually washed to remove acidity giving sweet curd cheese. It is not aged or colored. Different styles of cottage cheese are made from milks with different fat levels and in small curd or large curd preparations. Cottage cheese which is pressed becomes hoop cheese, farmer cheese, pot cheese or queso blanco.

CRACKED PEARL BARLEY (also see Barley)Cracked pearl barley resulting from the manufacture of pearl barley from clean barley

CYANOCOBALAMIN A synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is important for growth, cell reproduction, blood formation, and protein and tissue synthesis.Cyanocobalamin is used to treat pernicious anemia, nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency, malabsorption of vitamin B12, and other cases of vitamin B12 deficiency. Cyanocobalamin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. Read More here. http://www.healthline.com/multumcontent/cyanocobalamin

CRANBERRY POWDER All natural source of vitamin C and potassium. May have some ability to acidify the urine, but not consistently. Some sources list it as having an ability to block bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall, thus preventing bladder infections.

D

D-BIOTIN SUPPLEMENTB-complex vitamins

DEHYDRATED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT

DEHYDRATED BIFIDOBACTERIUM THEROPHILUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT

DEHYDRATED BIFIDOBACTERIUM LONGUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT

DEHYDRATED ENTEROCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT

DEHYDRATED LACTOBACILLIUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT

DEHYDRATED EGGS Dried whole poultry eggs freed of moisture by thermal means.

(DHA) SEE DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID

DICALCIUM PHOSPHATE

DIGEST (FLAVORING AGENT)

May also appear as dried, or spray dried. Sometimes the type and part of animals used is specified, such as in "Chicken Digest", "Lamb Digest" or "Poultry Liver Digest" AAFCO: Material which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and undecomposed animal tissue. The animal tissues used shall be exclusive of hair, horns, teeth, hooves and feathers, except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice and shall be suitable for animal feed. A cooked-down broth made from specified, or worse, unspecified parts of specified or unspecified animals (depending on the type of digest used). If the source is unspecified (e.g. "Animal" or "Poultry", the animals used can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), goats, pigs, horses, rats, misc. roadkill, animals euthanized at shelters, restaurant and supermarket refuse and so on.

DIGEST OF BEEF Material from beef which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed tissue. The tissues used shall be exclusive of hair, horns, teeth and hooves, except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice.

DIGEST OF BEEF BY-PRODUCTS Material from beef which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed tissue from non-rendered clean parts, other than meat, from cattle which includes, but is not limited to, lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, livers, blood, bone, partially defatted low-temperature fatty tissue, and stomachs and intestines freed of their contents. It does not include hair, horns, teeth and hoofs.

DIGEST OF POULTRY BY-PRODUCTSMaterial which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed tissue from non-rendered clean parts of carcasses of slaughtered poultry such as heads, feet, viscera, free from fecal content and foreign matter except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice.

DIGLYCERIDES  Mono-Diglycerides Just a New Name to Disquise An Old Silent Killer - Hydrogenated Oils Mono-diglycerides remain the most widely used emulsifiers in food production. Read More here http://www.dldewey.com/columns/monodyf.htm

DL-ALPHA TOCOPHEROL ACETATE (SWEETENER)Synthetic vitamin E, also listed as Dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate. Only about half as effective as natural vitamin E and not as readily available to the body. The dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate form of Vitamin E is synthetically derived. Consult your physician before taking vitamin E if you have vascular disease (such as heart disease or a history of stroke) or diabetes, are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, facing surgery, have bleeding problems, or are undergoing any treatment which may affect the ability of blood to clot. http://www.naturemade.com/faq/faq.asp?S=86#523 A Comparison of Natural and Synthetic Vitamin E http://tinyurl.com/2lt3y

DL METHIONINE Amino Acid Group

DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID (DHA) a natural Omega-3 fatty acid critical for brain and vision development. A growing puppy or kitten first receives DHA from its mother’s milk. Yet studies show that puppies and kittens can greatly benefit from DHA long after weaning.

DRIED ANIMAL DIGEST Dried material resulting from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed animal tissue. The animal tissue used shall be exclusive of hair, horns, teeth, hooves and feathers, except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice and shall be suitable for animal feed. If it bears a name descriptive of its kind or flavor(s), it must correspond thereto.

DRIED ASPERGILLUS ORYZAE FERMENTATION EXTRACT A Digestive enzyme derived from yeast extracts, this ingredient helps promote healthy digestion.

DRIED BEET PULP (SEE BEET PULP)   

DRIED EGG PRODUCT

DRIED KELP Dried seaweed of the families Laminaricae and Fu-caeae. If the product is prepared by artificial drying, it may be called "dehydrated kelp".

DRIED MILK PROTEIN Obtained by drying the coagulated protein residue resulting from the controlled co-precipitation of casein, lactalbumin and minor mild proteins from defatted milk.

DRIED REDUCED LACTOSE WHEY

DRIED SWEET POTATOES

DRIED TOMATOES

DRIED WHEYThe product obtained by removing water from the whey. It contains not less than 11 percent protein nor less than 61 percent lactose.

E

EGG PRODUCT Cooked and dried whole eggs, free of shells and other non-egg material. A high quality, highly digestible source of protein.

ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIEUM A probiotic, or beneficial bacteria, that helps promote a healthy digestive system by suppressing populations of the "bad" bacteria within the GI tract. Also supports a healthy immune system.

ENZYMES Enzymes are catalysts required by all food for enzymatic action to be digested. Plant enzymes can be taken with food to aid in digestion. Enzymes are a food that is natural to the body.

ETHOXYQUIN (PRESERVATIVE)WHAT IS IT? http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rlz=1B3GGGL_enUS220US220&defl=en&q=define:ETHOXYQUIN&sa=X&oi=glossary_definition&ct=title6-ethoxy-1,2-dihydro-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline. Antioxidant; also a post-harvest dip to prevent scald on apples and pears. Originally developed by Monsanto as a stabilizer for rubber, Ethoxyquin has also been used as a pesticide for fruit and a color preservative for spices, and later for animal feed. The original FDA permit for use as stabilizer in animal feed limited use to two years and did not include pet food, but it falls under the same legal category. It has never been proven to be safe for the lifespan of a companion animal. It has been linked to thyroid, kidney, reproductive and immune related illnesses as well as cancer, but so far no conclusive, reliable research results either for the safety of this product or against it have not been obtained. Monsanto conducted research years ago, but results were so inconclusive due to unprofessional conduct and documentation that the FDA demanded another study. There are currently several studies underway to determine whether Ethoxyquin is safe or not, and until those studies are completed, pet food suppliers may continue to use Ethoxyquin. This is how things stand after about 6 years, and no new details have emerged so far. As of 2006 it is still required in Fish Meal ETHYLENE DIAMINE DIHYDRIODIDE (SOURCE OF IODINE)

F

FAT Essential to dogs and cats (in correct quantities) for energy, skin and coat.

FEEDING OAT MEAL (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)AAFCO: Feeding oat meal is obtained in the manufacture of rolled oat groats or rolled oats and consists of broken oat groats, oat groat chips, and floury portions of the oat groats, with only such quantity of finely ground oat hulls as is unavoidable in the usual process of commericial milling. A food-grade fractionated grain, by-product from human food processing, that is not as nutritionally valuable as the product obtained from whole oats. It must not contain more than 4 percent crude fiber.

FERROUS SULFATE Source of Iron

Inorganic form of iron. Added to enhance the iron content of the food. Iron is responsible for the transport of oxygen throughout the body.

FISH MEAL (A SOURCE OF PROTEIN, SELENIUM, LYSTIN and METHIONINE) AAFCO: The clean, rendered, dried ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish or fish cuttings, either or both, with or without the extraction of part of the oil. Like with all other animal sources, if a type isn't specified, you never know what type or quality of fish is used. According to US Coast Guard regulations, all fish meal not destined for human consumption must be conserved with Ethoxyquin (unless the manufacturer has a special permit). http://frwebgate6.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/waisgate.cgi?WAISdocID=832768463647+10+0+0&WAISaction=retrieve This preservative is banned from use in foods for human consumption except for the use of very small quantities as a color preservative for spices. So unless the manufacturer either presents a permit or states "human grade" fish or fish meal is used, you can be pretty sure Ethoxyquin is present in the food even if it is not listed. FDA Requested levels be reduced in Dog Foods in 1997 http://www.fda.gov/cvm/CVM_Updates/dogethox.html

FISH OIL

FLAVOR (FLAVORING AGENT) A substance, such as an extract or spice, that add flavor to a product and is usually sprayed on the product. The manufacturer may or may not give more detailed information about what is used for flavoring and whether it is made from a natural or chemical substance.  

FLAX SEED High proportion base of unsaturated essential fatty acids. Aids in the baking process

FLAX SEED OILDespite the fact that the AAFCO still does not recognize EFAs as essential nutrients, more and more manufacturers include them in their products and of course proudly advertise the fact. Don't let yourself get fooled though, it's not enough that a brand is just advertised as "contains [high levels of] Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids" - they need to be present in sufficient amounts and in the proper ratio. As with all other ingredients, the manufacturers of lesser quality products try to get away as cheap as possible to maintain a large profit margin. Incorporating EFA's into a dog food is rather expensive in terms of ingredients as well as preservation, since especially the Omega-3's oxidize (and thus spoil) rather quickly. < SNIP>Please read entire article about Fatty Acids, here Essential Fatty Acids-The Dog Food Project

FOLIC ACID For blood, reproduction and normal metabolic maintenance. Vitamin B complex

FOOD COLORING (Also see Dyes by color)Red, Yellow and Blue. Dyes banned from human food. Added to please the human eye since pets could care less if they can even see color at all.

FRUCTOSE (SWEETENER) A very sweet sugar, C6H12O6, occurring in many fruits and honey and used as a preservative for food and as an intravenous nutrient. A monosaccharide found naturally in fresh fruit and honey. It is obtained by the inversion of sucrose by means of the enzyme invertase. Used in small quantities it serves as a nutrient for probiotics, specifically bifidobacteria, which ferment it and produce beneficial enzymes.  

G

GARLIC (IN TINY AMOUNTS, GARLIC IS OK)Helps tone digestive tract and discourage worms and other parasites, including fleas

GARLIC OIL  

GLANDULAR MEAL (FLAVORING AGENT)I have not been able to locate an official definition for this product so far. Since it is used as a "source of liver flavor" in poor quality foods, it is safe to assume that it is a meal obtained from the livers and other glands of various, unspecified animals. As with all generic, unspecified ingredients, it is wise to avoid.

GLUCOSAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE

This is a naturally occurring substance that is a building block for normal healthy joints. It can be obtained from the shells of shrimp, lobsters and crabs.

GLYCERYL MONOSTEARATE (ADDITIVE)   (A lipophilic non-ionic surfactant with HLB of 3.6 - 4.2. It has effects of emulsification, dispersion, foaming, defoaming, starch anti-aging and fat agglomeration control, and is widely used in foodstuffs, cosmetic, medicine and plastic processing industries. It is an emulsifier used the most widely and in the largest quantities in the foodstuff industry. A thickening, emulsifying, antisticking and antistalant agent. Can contain up to 200 ppm butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as a preservative (see also BHT). Depending on method of manufacture, it can also contain glyceryl distearate (42-44%), glyceryl tristearate (20-23%), free glycerol (3-5%). Other impurities include mono-, di-, and triesters of related fatty acids as well as unreacted fatty acids. Due to the uncertainty of chemical additives, this ingredient should be avoided.

GRAIN FERMENTATION SOLUBLES (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)AAFCO: The dried material resulting from drying the water soluble materials after separation of suspended solids from grain fermentation. An inexpensive byproduct of human food and beverage production which adds little or no nutritional value to pet foods.

GRAPE POMACE (FRUITS AND VEGETABLES)AAFCO: The mixture of grape skins, pulp, and crushed seeds. An inexpensive byproduct left over from pressing grapes for juice or wine. The product contributes some fiber but otherwise has little to no nutritinal value. Grapes have also shown to contain a substance that is toxic to dogs, so they should not be fed at all.

GRAPE SEED OILRich in vitamin E and is loaded with omega 6 (linoleic) fatty acids which is excellent for the skin and coat. Contains nearly 76% essential omega 6 and 3 is highly stable.

GROUND BREWERS RICE  (SEE BREWERS RICE)    

GROUND CORN (GROUND EAR CORN) The entire ear of corn ground, without husks, with no greater portion of cob than occurs in the ear corn in its natural state.

GROUND DE-HULLED OATS Presumably ground cleaned oats with hulls removed (ground oat groats).

GROUND RICE (ALSO SEE RICE)Product obtained by coarse grinding the whole grain rice

GROUND WHEATPresumably a coarser grind of wheat flour.

GROUND WHOLE BROWN RICE (GROUND BROWN RICE) The entire product obtained by grinding the rice kernels after the hulls have been removed.

GROUND WHOLE WHEAT Ground whole kernel, presumably equivalent to AAFCO's Wheat Mill Run, Wheat Middlings, Wheat Shorts or Wheat Red Dog, whose principal differences are in the percentage of crude fiber.

GROUND YELLOW CORN Same as ground corn, except that the corn is yellow

H

HERRING OIL

I

IODINEFor prevention of goiter. Has profound effect on growth and development. The Thyroid gland stores and uses iodine.

INULIN A substance of very wide occurrence. It is found dissolved in the sap of the roots and rhizomes of many composite and other plants, as Inula, Helianthus, Campanula, etc., and is extracted by solution as a tasteless, white, semicrystalline substance, resembling starch, with which it is isomeric, having fructose units in place of most of the glucose units. It is intermediate in nature between starch and sugar, and replaces starch as the reserve food in Compositae. Also called dahlin, helenin, alantin, alant starch, etc. http://www.thedietchannel.com/Inulin-and-Food-Are-You-Eating-Inulin-Unknowingly.htm

IRON For healthy blood. More important for dogs as cats eat more meat. A deficiency of iron causes nutritional anemia

IRON PROTEINATE Chelated form of iron. Necessary for the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Chelated minerals are attached to amino acids for better absorption from the digestive tract.

IRON SULFATE

J

KKELP (DRIED KELP) Seaweed source of iodine as well as an easy to digest protein wrapping for chelated minerals. Helps produce small firm stools. May reduce stool odor.

KIBBLED CORN Obtained by cooking cracked corn under steam pressure and extruding from an expeller or other mechanical pressure device.

L

L-CARNITINE A vitamin-like substance that helps maintain normal metabolism. This helps the body burn fat for energy and helps normalize blood sugar levels.

LACOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS A probiotic, or beneficial bacteria, that helps promote a healthy digestive system by suppressing populations of the "bad" bacteria within the GI tract. Also supports a healthy immune system

LACOBACILLUS CASEI A probiotic, or beneficial bacteria, that helps promote a healthy digestive system by suppressing populations of the "bad" bacteria within the GI tract. Also supports a healthy immune system

LAMB BONE MEAL Steamed dried & ground product sterilized by cooking un-decomposed bones with steam under pressure. Grease, gelatin and meat fiber may or may not be removed.

LAMB DIGEST Material resulting from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed lamb. The tissue used shall be exclusive of hair, horns, teeth and hooves, except in such trace amounts as might occur unavoidably in good factory practice and shall be suitable for animal feed.

LAMB FAT Obtained from the tissues of lamb in the commercial processes of rendering or extracting. It consists predominantly of glyceride esters of fatty acids and contains no additions of free fatty acids. If an antioxidant is used, the common name or names must be indicated, followed by the words "used as a preservative".

LAMB (FRESH) Food grade lamb, mechanically removed from the bone. Never frozen, arrives in less than 24 hours. Enhances palatability, low ash.

LAMB MEAL The rendered product from lamb tissues, exclusive of blood, hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices.

LARD (FAT SOURCE)AAFCO: The rendered fat of swine. Very low in linoleic acid but very attractive to pets, used to make poor quality food more appealing. Few nutritional benefits.

LECITHIN Phosphorized fat from plants/animals. Important for body tissue and cells. Protects cell membrane from damage caused by oxidation. Largely composed of the B vitamin choline. As an emulsifier, it provides an excellent addition to the diet facilitating fat soluble vitamin absorption.

LINOLEIC ACIDFor skin and coat (studies have shown linoleic acid to be a natural anticarcinogen in mice and rats. Further study needed for other animals and humans)

LINSEED MEAL The product obtained by grinding the cake or chips which remain after removal of most of the oil from flaxseed by a mechanical extraction process. It must contain no more than 10 percent fiber. The words "mechanical extracted" are not required when listing as an ingredient in the manufactured food.

LIPASEEnzyme, aids in proper fat absorption important for healthy skin and coat

LECITHIN is a type of lipid and is needed by every living cell in the human body. Cell membranes as well as the protective sheath surrounding the brain are composed mostly of lecithin and is also found in the muscles and nerve cells. It consists mainly of the vitamin B ingredients choline as well as linoleic acid and inositol

LIVER The hepatic gland (of whatever species is listed).

LIVER MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE) AAFCO: The dried product of ground hepatic glands of mammals. Whenever the word 'meat' or the name of an organ appear by themselves (without a species) on a pet food label, there is no way to know which kind of animal it came from. It could be horse liver, goat, duck, pig, or even skunk or other animals of questionable origin.

L-LYSTINE Essential Amino acid

L-LYSTINE MONOHYDROCHLORIDE

M

MAGANESIUM Mineral needed for healthy muscles, blood and bones

MANGANOUS OXIDESource of Magnesium

MANGANESE PROTEINATEChelate of Manganese

MANGANESE SULFATEManganese supplements are used to prevent or treat manganese deficiency.http://www.drugs.com/cons/manganese-sulfate.html

MALTODEXTRINS & FERMENTATION SOLUBLES (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)A brewery byproduct much like "grain fermentation solubles", with some maltodextrin from malted barley. Better suited for use in short term feeding like e.g. livestock than as an ingredient in pet food.

MANNITOL (sugar alcohol)A polyol widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries because of its unique functional properties. It is about 50% as sweet as sucrose and has a desirable cooling effect often used to mask bitter tastes. Mannitol is non-cariogenic and has a low caloric content. Mannitol is suitable for ingestion and has been used safely around the world for over 60 years. Read more here http://www.polyol.org/fap/fap_mannitol.html

MEAL"Meal" is a word that the department of Agriculture uses to define ingredients that are rendered parts of the animal *THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THE MEAT*

MEATShould be Clean, wholesome flesh of slaughtered animals

MEAT and BONE MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE)   AAFCO: The rendered product from mammal tissues, with or without bone, exclusive of any added blood, hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices. The animal parts used can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), goats, pigs, horses, rats, misc. roadkill, animals euthanized at shelters and so on. It can also include pus, cancerous tissue, and decomposed (spoiled) tissue.

MEAT BY-PRODUCTS ( NOT FIT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION)The non rendered, clean parts, other than meat, derived from slaughtered mammals. It includes, but is not limited to, lungs, spleen, kidneys, brain, livers, blood, bone, partially defatted low-temperature fatty tissue and stomachs and intestines freed of their contents. It does not include hair, horns, teeth and hooves.

MEAT MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE) AAFCO: The rendered product from mammal tissues, exclusive of any added blood, hair, hoof, horn, hide trimmings, manure, stomach and rumen contents except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices. The animal parts used can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), goats, pigs, horses, rats, misc. roadkill, animals euthanized at shelters and so on. It can also include pus, cancerous tissue, and decomposed (spoiled) tissue.

MENADIONE DIMETHYLPYRIMIDINOL BISULFITE SOURCE OF VITAMIN K ACTIVITYVitamin K3, synthetic vitamin K. Feed grade. Also listed as Menadione Dimethyl-Pyrimidinol Bisulfate, Menadione Dimethyl-Pyrimidinol Bisulfite, Menadione Sodium Bisulfate Complex, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite and Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex. Unnecessary ingredient in dog food. This synthetic version of vitamin K has not been specifically approved for long term use, such as in pet food. It has been linked to many serious health issues http://www.dogfoodproject.com/index.php?page=menadione Most companies have removed this from their foods.

MINERAL OIL (SUPPLEMENT) Any of various light hydrocarbon oils, especially a distillate of petroleum. Mineral oil functions as a laxative and stool softener. I have not found any evidence of any other health benefits. Tells a lot about the product it is used in, doesn't it?

MONOSODIUM PHOSPHAIC Sodium

N

NATURAL FLAVOR

NIACIN Water-soluble Vitamin B3. Helps to maintain normal function of skin, nerves, digestive system.

O

OATSToasted oats are highly nutritious, have natural palatability enhancements and combined with whole oat flour, provide extraordinary grain based nutrition. An excellent source of protein without the allergy causing glutens found in wheat and other grains. Rich soluble fiber for better health.

OAT HULLS (FIBER SOURCES)I have not been able to locate an official definition for this product so far. Most likely what is left over from dehulling the whole oat kernels after harvesting, comparable to peanut hulls. It is not the same as oat bran (the hull that protects the grain itself), which is a quality source of dietary fiber and removed prior to rolling and/or flaking. Thumbs down for this filler ingredient.

OAT MEAL

OXALATE & CALCIUM OXALATEOxalic acid (chemical formula HOOC-COOH) is a strong organic acid which is widely distributed in nature in both plants and animals. However, plants contain more than animals. The name comes from the plant Oxalis (wood sorrel) from which it was first isolated.Oxalic acid has the ability to form a strong bond with various minerals, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. When this occurs, the compounds formed are usually referred to as oxalate salts. Thus, “oxalate” usually refers to a salt of oxalic acid, one of which is calcium oxalate. Although both sodium and potassium oxalate salts are water soluble, calcium oxalate is practically insoluble, which is why calcium oxalate, when present in high enough levels, has the propensity to precipitate (or solidify) in the kidneys or in the urinary tract to form calcium oxalate crystals. Calcium oxalate crystals, in turn, contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Approximately 75% of all kidney stones are composed predominantly of calcium oxalate. For reasons not yet fully understood, women have a much lower incidence of kidney stones than men.Click here to read more http://www.vulvarpainfoundation.org/vpfoxalate.htm

P

PARABEN (PRESERVATIVE)Parabens are a class of chemicals widely used as preservatives in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Parabens are effective preservatives in many types of formulas. These compounds, and their salts, are used primarily for their bactericidal and fungicidal properties. They can be found in shampoos, commercial moisturizers, shaving gels, personal lubricants, topical/parenteral pharmaceuticals, spray tanning solution and toothpaste. They are also used as food additives.  Their efficacy as preservatives, in combination with their low cost, the long history of their use, and the inefficacy of natural alternatives like grapefruit seed extract (GSE),[1] probably explains why parabens are so commonplace. They are becoming increasingly controversial, however, because they have been found in extremely low concentrations in breast cancer tumors (an average of 20 nanograms/g of tissue). [2] Parabens have also displayed the ability to weakly mimic estrogen (a hormone known to play a role in the development of breast cancer).[2] No causal link between parabens and cancer has been established, however.[3] Also found in Pet Dental Sprays and such.More Info here:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paraben    PANTOTHENIC ACID (VITAMIN B5)For appetite, normal growth and development, and digestion

PAPAINVegetable enzyme, used as a digestive aid (from Papaya)

PAPAIN & ALPHY AMYLASE ENZYMESEnzymes added to facilitate digestion and absorption of protein and carbohydrates. Amylase activity is derived from aspergillus niger, a microorganism in the mod genera family, which produces an enzyme that helps to break down starches into simple sugars for energy and metabolism.

PEAS Peas.

PEA FIBER

PEANUT HULLS (FIBER SOURCES)AAFCO: The outer hull of the peanut shell. No nutritional value whatsoever, and are used exclusively as a cheap filler ingredient. Possibility of pesticide residues being present.

PEARLED BARLEY

PHOSPHORIC ACID  (ADDITIVE)A clear colorless liquid, H3PO4, used in fertilizers, detergents, food flavoring, and pharmaceuticals. A harmless but unnecessary ingredient, used in inexpensive, poor quality dog food as flavoring, emulsifier and discoloration inhibitor. Used for example as a flavoring for Coca Cola.

PORK and BONE MEAL  (PROTEIN SOURCE) AAFCO: The rendered product from pork tissues, including bone, exclusive of any added blood, hair, hoof, skin, manure, stomach and rumen contents, except in such amounts as may occur unavoidably in good processing practices. A byproduct made from pork parts which are not suitable for human consumption. It can incorporate the entire pig, including the bones, but the quality cuts of meat are always removed. This is an inexpensive, low quality ingredient used to boost the protein percentage.

POTASSIUM Mineral vital in proper muscle functioning and growth

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE A source of Potassium

POTASSIUM SORBATEA mild chemical preservative. Its primary use is as a food preservative (E number 202) CONSIDERED SAFE~ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potassium_sorbate

POTATOES Rich in potassium, lysine and other minerals. An excellent carbohydrate source (energy)

POTATO PRODUCT (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)AAFCO: Potato pieces, peeling, culls, etc., obtained from the manufacture of processed potato products for human consumption. A cheap byproduct of human food processing that has been stripped of much of the nutritional benefits that whole, fresh potatoes offer.

POULTRY BY-PRODUCTS (PROTEIN SOURCES) NOT FIT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTIONProducts not fit for human consumption from any source of poultry. Includes feathers, intestines, heads and feet.

POULTRY BY-PRODUCT MEAL  (PROTEIN SOURCES) NOT FIT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTIONAAFCO: Consists of the ground, rendered, clean parts of the carcasses of slaughtered poultry, such as necks, feet, undeveloped eggs, and intestines, exclusive of feathers except in such amounts as might occur unavoidably in good processing practices. The parts used can be obtained from any slaughtered fowl, so there is no control over the quality and consistency of individual batches. Poultry byproducts are much less expensive and less digestible than chicken meat. The ingredients of each batch can vary drastically in ingredients (heads, feet, bones, organs etc.) as well as quality, thus the nutritional value is also not consistent. Don't forget that byproducts consist of any parts of the animal OTHER than meat. If there is any use for any part of the animal that brings more profit than selling it as "byproduct", rest assured it will appear in such a product rather than in the "byproduct" dumpster.

POULTRY DIGEST Material which results from chemical and/or enzymatic hydrolysis of clean and un-decomposed poultry tissue.

POULTRY FAT  (FAT SOURCE)AAFCO: Primarily obtained from the tissue of poultry in the commercial process of rendering or extracting. It shall contain only the fatty matter natural to the product produced under good manufacturing practices and shall contain no added free fatty acids or other materials obtained from fat. It must contain not less than 90 percent total fatty acids and not more than 3 percent of unsaponifiables and impurities. It shall have a minimum titer of 33 degrees Celsius. If an antioxidant is used, the common name or names must be indicated, followed by the word "preservative(s)". Note how in this product the source is not defined as "slaughtered poultry". The rendered fowl can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), turkey, chicken, geese, buzzard, seagulls, misc. roadkill, birds euthanized at shelters and so on.

POULTRY MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE) AAFCO: The clean combination of poultry flesh and skin with or without bone. Does not contain feathers, heads, feet or entrails. If from a particular source it may state so (i.e. chicken, turkey etc). Note how in this product the source is not defined as "slaughtered poultry".The manufacturer does not disclose the species (or the mix of species) of the poultry used. The fowl can be obtained from any source, so there is no control over quality or contamination. Any kind of animal can be included: "4-D animals" (dead, diseased, disabled, or dying prior to slaughter), turkey, chicken, geese, buzzard, seagulls, misc. roadkill, birds euthanized at shelters and so on.

POWERED CELLULOSE Purified, mechanically disintegrated cellulose prepared by processing alpha cellulose obtained as a pulp from fibrous plant materials.

PROBIOTICSUsed to facilitate good health and wellness. They inhibit unfriendly bacteria proliferation, help nutrient absorption and facilitate digestion.

PROPYL GALLATE (PRESERVATIVE)Also known as Gallic Acid or Propyl Ester. It is made from natural Gallic Acid, which is obtained by the hydrolysis of tannins from Tara Pods. Used as an antioxidant to stabilize cosmetics, food packaging materials, and foods containing fats. I have not found conclusive evidence either for or against the safety of this product, but it is suspected of causing liver diseases and cancer, so once again personally I prefer to err on the side of caution. Mixed tocopherols, citric acid and rosemary extract are effective, all-natural alternatives - just more expensive.

PROPYLENE GLYCOL (ADDITIVE)A colorless viscous hygroscopic liquid, CH3CHOHCH2OH, used in antifreeze solutions, in hydraulic fluids, and as a solvent. Used as humectant in semi-moist kibble to keep it from drying out. May be toxic if consumed in large amounts, and should definitely not be an ingredient in a food an animal will eat daily for weeks, months or even years of its life. In countries of the European Union, propylene glycol is not cleared as a general-purpose food grade product or direct food additive

PROTEINFor Growth and Maintenance. Most important is the type of protein in the food, not the quantity. NOTE: The Crude Protein lists the amount of protein not the amount that can be digested

PSYLLIUM is a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs liquid in the intestines and makes a bulky, softer stool which is easier to pass. Psyllium is used to treat constipation. Psyllium may also be used to treat diarrhea and to lower cholesterol when prescribed by a doctor. Psyllium may also have uses other than those listed. Psyllium (Plantago psyllium [Latin]), also known as fleaseed, plantago, and plantain, is one of over 200 species of plantain, and is best known for its dependable laxative effects. Indian Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicines recommend the seed of this plant for treatment of diarrhea, constipation, and hemorrhoids. Today psyllium is the key ingredient in many fiber drinks, including Metamucil. http://www.vitaminstuff.com/herbs-psyllium.html

PYRIDOXINE (VITAMIN B6)Promotes normal red-blood-cell formation. Maintains chemical balance among body fluids. Regulates excretion of water. Helps in energy production and resistance to stress. Acts as co-enzyme in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism.

PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6)Type of medicine: vitamin Generic and brand names: pyridoxine hydrochloride, oral; vitamin B-6; Aminoxin; Beesix; Nestrex. Take this medicine exactly as your health care provider prescribes. Taking large doses to treat medical problems has not been proven effective and may be dangerous. Take large doses only if your health care provider recommends them. http://www.fairview.org/healthlibrary/content/ma_pyridoxi_ma.htm

Q

QUINOAA highly nutritious, gluten free, grain (vegetable) from South America. A high Andes grain that is 100% organically grown, rich in amino acids and is an excellent energy source

R

RED DYE 40 (COLORING AGENT)The color additive FD&C Red No. 40 is principally the disodium salt of 6-hydroxy-5-[(2-methoxy-5-methyl-4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthalenesulfonic acid. The most widely used food dye. While this is one of the most-tested food dyes, the key mouse tests were flawed and inconclusive. An FDA review committee acknowledged problems, but said evidence of harm was not "consistent" or "substantial." Like other dyes, Red 40 is used mainly in junk foods. Personally I'd rather avoid this ingredient and err on the side of caution.

RIBOFLAVIN (B2)Mineral necessary for red blood cell formation, antibody protection, cell respiration, and growth. It alleviates eye fatigue

RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT

RICE (ALSO SEE GROUND RICE)Excellent carbohydrate source

RICE BRAN The pericarp or bran layer and germ of the rice, with only such quantity of hull fragments, chipped, broken, or brewer's rice, and calcium carbonate as is unavoidable in the regular milling of edible rice.

RICE FLOUR Product obtained by fine grinding the whole grain rice

RICE HULLS (FIBER SOURCE) AAFCO: The outer covering of rice. An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing, serving as a source of fiber that is considered a filler ingredient.

ROSEMARYMary Wulff-Tilford (a respected herbalist who co-wrote Herbs for Pets)QUESTION: Is it true, that Rosemary can cause seizures in some dogs or dogs who are known to have or to be prone to have seizures, should not have rosemary? It's used in some dog foods as a preservative. ANSWER FROM HER BOOK: "Herbs for Pets"http://www.canine-epilepsy.com/herbsforpets.html

ROSEMARY EXTRACTConcentrated with rich, naturally occurring phenolic compounds that provide excellent anti-oxidant activity to protect the fats preventing harmful peroxide and free radical formulation that reduces the nutrient quality

S

SALT (SUPPLEMENT) Also listed as Sodium Chloride. A colorless or white crystalline solid, chiefly sodium chloride, used extensively in ground or granulated form as a food seasoning and preservative. May also appear in ingredient list as "Iodized Salt" (iodine supplement added), "Sea Salt" (as opposed to salt mined from underground deposits) or "Sodium Chloride" (chemical expression). While salt is a necessary mineral, it is also generally present in sufficient quantities in the ingredients pet foods include. Just like for humans, too much sodium intake is unhealthy for animals. In poor quality foods it is often used in large amounts to add flavor and make the food more interesting.

SEA SALT Sea salt and table salt have the same nutritional value. The real differences between sea salt and table salt are in their taste and texture. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sea-salt/AN01142 Lots of info on salt at this link, but not sure if I believe it all, but it is an interesting read.........  http://www.curezone.com/foods/saltcure.asp

SODIUM ASCORBATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN C)

SODIUM SELENITE

SORBITOL (SWEETENER)A white, sweetish, crystalline alcohol, C6H8(OH)6, found in various berries and fruits or prepared synthetically and used as a flavoring agent, a sugar substitute for people with diabetes, and a moisturizer in cosmetics and other products. Sugar or sweetener is an

absolutely unnecessary ingredient in pet foods, added to make the product more attractive. Continuous intake can promote hypoglycemia, obesity, nervousness, cataracts, tooth decay, arthritis and allergies. Pets also get addicted to foods that contain sugars, so it can be a tough piece of work to make them eat something healthier.

SORGHUM (SORE GUM) ( Whole or Ground Whole Grain Sorghum) http://www.fao.org/ag/aga/agap/frg/afris/data/314.htm <-----READ MORE ABOUT IT. Sorghum is a member of the Grass family. There are many different varieties. They can be classified into 4 groups. Sorghum has the disadvantage of tending to cause constipation.  The feed value of grain sorghum is similar to corn and is grown primarily as a feed grain for livestock. NOTE: IT IS NOTHING I WOULD WANT TO FEED MY BABIES UNLESS THEY CHANGE INTO COWS OR PIGS~.Also see Merck manual for poisoning that can result. http://www.merckvetmanual.com/mvm/index.jsp?cfile=htm/bc/213500.htm

SOYBEAN HULLS Consist primarily of the outer covering of the soybean.

SOYBEAN MEAL (PROTEIN SOURCE)AAFCO: The product obtained by grinding the flakes which remain after removal of most of the oil from soybeans by a solvent or mechanical extraction process. A poor quality protein filler used to boost the protein content of low quality pet foods. Has a biologic value of less than 50% of chicken meal.

SOYBEAN MILL RUN (FIBER SOURCES)AAFCO: Composed of soybean hulls and such bean meats that adhere to the hulls which results from normal milling operations in the production of dehulled soybean meal. An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing, commonly referred to as 'floor sweepings'. An inexpensive filler with no real nutritional value

SOY FLOUR (CARBOHYDRATE SOURCE)AAFCO: The finely powdered material resulting from the screened and graded product after removal of most of the oil from selected, sound, cleaned and dehulled soybeans by a mechanical or solvent extraction process. Much of the nutritional value is lost already during processing of the grain to flour. May contain particles of hull, germ, and the offal from the tail of the mill.

SUGAR (SWEETENER) Can include sucrose, cane sugar, caramel, corn syrup and others. Sugar or sweetener is an absolutely unnecessary ingredient in pet foods, added to make the product more attractive. Continuous intake can promote hypoglycemia, obesity, nervousness, cataracts, tooth decay, arthritis and allergies. Pets also get addicted to foods that contain sugars, so it can be a tough piece of work to make them eat something healthier.

SWEET POTATOES

T

TALLOWAnimal fats with titer above 40 degrees Celsius.

TAPIOCA  basically a root starch derived from the cassava, or yuca plant. It's often used to thicken soups and sweeten the flavor of baked goods, and it makes a dandy pudding. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapioca

TAURINTaurine is essential for cat health, as a cat cannot synthesize the compound. The absence of taurine causes a cat's retina to slowly degenerate, causing eye problems and (eventually) irreversible blindness.This condition is called central retinal degeneration (CRD) In addition, taurine deficiency can cause feline dilated cardiomyopathy, and supplementation can reverse left ventricular systolic dysfunction.However, the vegetarian lioness Little Tyke survived for years in captivity without imbibing the normal required dose of Taurine. (Pion et al 1988) Taurine is now a requirement of the AAFCO and any dryor wet food product labeled approved by the AAFCO should have a minimum of 0.1% Taurine. Read more here http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/tau_0246.shtml

THIAMINE MONOITRATE

TITANIUM DIOXIDE ((COLORING AGENT)

A white powder, TiO2, used as an exceptionally opaque white pigment and dough conditioner. Non toxic but an unnecessary ingredient that could just as well be left out.

TURKEY Unspecified turkey

TURKEY MEALThe ground clean combination of flesh and skin with or without accompanying bone, derived from the parts or whole carcasses of turkey or a combination thereof, exclusive of feathers, heads, feet and entrails.

U

V

VEGETABLE OIL  (FAT SOURCE) AAFCO: The product of vegetable origin obtained by extracting the oil from seeds or fruits which are processed for edible purposes. The source vegetables for this oil (and therefore the nutrient properties or lack thereof) are unknown. Wouldn't you like to know just what exactly you are feeding your pet? 

VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT

VITAMIN B-12 SUPPLEMENT

VITAMIN D-3 SUPPLEMENT

VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT

W

WHEAT BRAN The coarse outer covering of the wheat kernel as separated from cleaned and scoured wheat in the usual process of commercial milling.

WHEAT FLOUR Wheat flour together with fine particles of wheat bran, wheat germ and the offal from the "tail of the mill". This product must be obtained in the usual process of commercial milling and must not contain more than 1.5 percent crude fiber.

WHEAT GERM MEAL Consists chiefly of wheat germ together with some bran and middlings or short. It must contain not less than 25 percent crude protein and 7 percent crude fat.

WHEAT GLUTEN (BINDER)AAFCO: The tough, viscid nitrogenous substance remaining when wheat is washed to remove the starch. An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing with almost no nutritional value left, serves mostly as a binder.

WHEAT MILL RUN (FIBER SOURCES)May also appear as "Wheat Middlings". AAFCO: Coarse and fine particles of wheat bran and fine particles of wheat shorts, wheat germ, wheat flour and offal from the "tail of the mill". An inexpensive byproduct of human food processing, commonly referred to as 'floor sweepings' and must contain, not more than 9.5 percent crude fiber. An inexpensive filler with no real nutritional value.

WHEY

The product obtained as a fluid by separating the coagulum from milk, cream or skimmed milk and from which a portion of the milk fat may have been removed.

WHOLE BARLEY

WHOLE CHICKEN Fresh, whole chicken without any by-products, feet, heads, feathers or intestines. Excellent source of amino acids, fatty acids and Biotin

WHOLE GROUND FLAXSEED

Y

YEAST CULTURE (SUPPLEMENT)AAFCO: The dried product composed of yeast and the media on which it is grown, dried in such a manner as to preserve the fermenting activity of the yeast. An unnecessary, feed-grade ingredient in pet foods, added mainly as a flavoring to make inexpensive food more attractive. Lacks the nutritional value of higher quality yeast supplements. The media on which the yeast was grown is not identified. Also a potential allergen for some dogs.

YEAST FERMENTATION SOLUBLES (SUPPLEMENT)AAFCO: The soluble portion of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and the media in which is produced. A feed-grade ingredient in pet foods, added as a vitamin B supplement. It is harmless, but lacks the nutrients of higher quality yeast supplements. The media on which the yeast was grown is not identified. Also a potential allergen for some dogs.

YELLOW DYE 5  (COLORING AGENT) The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 5 is principally the trisodium salt of 4,5-dihydro-5-oxo-1-(4-sulfophenyl)-4- [4-sulfophenyl-azo]-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid (CAS Reg. No. 1934-21- 0). To manufacture the additive, 4-amino-benzenesulfonic acid is diazotized using hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite. The diazo compound is coupled with 4,5-dihydro-5-oxo-1-(4-sulfophenyl)-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid or with the methyl ester, the ethyl ester, or a salt of this carboxylic acid. The resulting dye is purified and isolated as the sodium salt. The second most widely used coloring can cause mild allergic reactions, primarily in aspirin-sensitive persons.

YELLOW DYE 6 (COLORING AGENT)The color additive FD&C Yellow No. 6 is principally the disodium salt of 6-hydroxy-5-[(4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthalenesulfonic acid (CAS Reg. No. 2783-94-0). The trisodium salt of 3-hydroxy-4-[(4- sulfophenyl)azo]-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid may be added in small amounts. The color additive is manufactured by diazotizing 4-aminobenzenesulfonic acid using hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite or sulfuric acid and sodium nitrite. The diazo compound is coupled with 6-hydroxy-2-naphthalene-sulfonic acid. The dye is isolated as the sodium salt and dried. The trisodium salt of 3-hydroxy-4-[(4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid which may be blended with the principal color is prepared in the same manner except the diazo benzenesulfonic acid is coupled with 3-hydroxy-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid. Industry-sponsored animal tests indicated that this dye, the third most widely used, causes tumors of the adrenal gland and kidney. In addition, small amounts of several carcinogens contaminate Yellow 6. However, the FDA reviewed those data and found reasons to conclude that Yellow 6 does not pose a significant cancer risk to humans. Yellow 6 may also cause occasional allergic reactions. Another ingredient I would rather avoid and err on the side of caution rather than risking my pet's health.

Z

ZINC PROTEINATE

ZINC SULFATE 

Other Links connected to the Food Industry

http://www.mad-cow.org/~tom/render_ed.html     Rendering Dangershttp://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1661&articleid=2653      How Pet Foods Are manufactured http://chemistry.about.com/cs/medical/a/aamadrender.htm    You and Your Cat and Rendering Plants

A Note from me about a few things regarding Commercial Pet foods.

In some cases you will see 4D Animals mentioned! (Dead-Dying-Diseased-Disabled)  These are rendered animals which have died due to, many causes, i.e., disease, road kill, pets from Veterinary offices (filled with medications), downed cattle and any many other causes. (NOTE: In Canada, those types of animals are labeled 3D-Dead-Dying-Disabled) For those of you who refuse to believe that 4D animals go into our pet foods, perhaps,  you may be more inclined to believe it if you watched a short video made in 1999, with the, then President,  of the AAFCO  who was Herschel Pensdall.     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs6EkcFg7Eo      In a taped interview in 1999, when asked about euthanized pets being allowed in Pet Foods, he replied that he is not aware of any written law or regulation at *ANY LEVEL* prohibiting the use of rendered products which may contain cats and dogs.

When asked if one can tell by reading the label , what is actually in the pet food, his response was consistent and a bit sickening.......and he , as you will see, did not blink an eye as her answered it!  To me, at the very end, when he uttered the last word, it almost looked like he was beginning a small grin!, as he thought he had said something cute!   This is his quote which you will see and hear him say: 

There is no way to really tell that, because if the ingredients says meat and bone meal, you don’t know if that’s cattle or, sheep or horses or *fluffy*  !!!!!

If after seeing this you still are not sure , then perhaps if you see it from the *horses’ mouth* (pun intended) right on the FDA/Agriculture website, you will believe.   www.nationalaglawcenter.org/assets/crs/RS21771.pdf

Please let me know of dead links so I can fix them where possible.

Thank you!